July/August 2011 Astrology Forecast
Birthing a New Reality in July and August
by Emily Trinkaus
A dramatic solar eclipse on July 1 presents an opportunity to shed what you’ve outgrown and enter a new reality, one that may feel foreign and scary. As an extra-powerful new moon, a solar eclipse initiates a new cycle of growth that will develop over the next six months and beyond. In Cancer, this eclipse highlights themes of security, nurturing, home and family.
Helpfully, expansive Jupiter will form a harmonious trine with transformational Pluto, increasing support and stamina for initiating lasting change. Shedding attachments and commitments to what is out of alignment with your values is key to moving forward. Though in effect throughout the summer, the Jupiter-Pluto influence will be strongest on July 7, and again in October and March.
Aries (March 21 - April 19)
Deep feelings demand your attention at the solar eclipse, calling you to shore up your emotional base of support. Home and family could be high-intensity arenas for change, necessitating negotiation in close relationships. Talents and resources that have been buried or untapped are now ready to emerge and offer support for your ongoing process of professional transformation.
Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
Your powers of perception get rewired by the solar eclipse, waking you up to wider vistas of possibility. Mental expansion is a necessary prerequisite for the transformational leap of faith that wants to happen this summer — journeying to foreign territory, setting out on a spiritual vision quest, or sharing your vision with the world in a bigger and braver way.
Gemini (May 21 - June 21)
July's eclipse challenges you to increase your capacity for pleasure and prosperity, renewing your relationship with the material world. As you strengthen your connection with source, it becomes easier to shed the old programs and attachments that hold you back. Practice calming your busy mind and trust your body's intuitive wisdom to guide you forward.
Cancer (June 22 - July 22)
The solar eclipse in your sign signals a profound evolutionary leap, a new way of being in the world that catapults you into unfamiliar territory. Work, family and significant relationships may all require reevaluation and restructuring as a result. Reach out and connect with allies who share your values and vision to open up new sources of support.
Leo (July 23 - August 22)
If you've been neglecting your self-care, July's eclipse could catalyze a crisis point. Not to worry — now is the ideal time to free yourself from self-sabotaging habits and transform your daily routines. Increased recognition of your creative talents inspires confidence and motivation for making necessary changes. And the steps you take to improve your health will support you in achieving success.
Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
A new dream for your future is emerging, and you may need to renovate your social circle to nurture this change of direction. A willingness to share your creative passion, power and authenticity attracts allies who can best support you in moving forward. The Virgo new moon on Aug. 28 is a potent time to reinvent yourself and take a bold step toward long-term goals.
Libra (September 23 - October 23)
The solar eclipse signals a new direction in your career, asking you to commit to what truly feeds you and to bring your inner and outer worlds into greater alignment. If you've been dissatisfied with your work, this could be a major turning point. Financial support from a partner or business investment can help you make the shift. Don't be afraid to prioritize your own desires and ask for what you need.
Scorpio (October 24 - November 22)
Stepping outside your familiar environment supports you in restoring your faith, inspiration and optimism. At the solar eclipse, plant seeds for a physical, intellectual or spiritual adventure. You can make deep, lasting changes in your significant relationships by transforming your perception and speaking your truth from a place of vulnerability.
Sagittarius (November 23 - December 21)
The solar eclipse alerts you to old fears and insecurities hiding out in your subconscious. Dive into the darkness and go on your own underworld journey, stripping away emotions and attachments that no longer serve you. Connecting with your core self provides a powerful foundation for building a more genuine and lasting sense of security.
Capricorn (December 22 - January 20)
Pluto's ongoing journey through your sign indicates profound personal transformation, and July's eclipse puts the pressure on significant relationships to adjust to the pace of change. The balance between independence and interdependence is highlighted, and honestly revealing your needs and feelings is the best approach. Shedding old defenses opens your capacity to enjoy the present.
Aquarius (January 21 - February 19)
Commit to improving self-care routines at the solar eclipse. Avoid overly ambitious plans that are likely to lead to disappointment. Instead, identify one small step you can take to better nurture yourself in your daily life. A full moon in your sign on Aug. 13 signals the culmination of a personal project, putting you in the spotlight. Let your creativity and uniqueness shine.
Pisces (February 20 - March 20)
Love, romance and self-expression are brought into focus by July's eclipse, which catalyzes new beginnings in pursuing your heart's desires. Get in touch with what really makes you happy, and be willing to release what no longer feels like fun. Now is an auspicious time to launch a new creative project, and you've got cosmic support for sharing your vision with the world.
Emily Trinkaus is a lifelong student of astrology and has practiced professionally since 1999. She is also a certified BodyTalk practitioner. Visit www.virgomagic.com to sign up for her free monthly newsletter or read her blog at www.virgomagic.wordpress.com.